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If you are considering options to restore missing teeth, you have likely come across terms like “fixed prosthodontics” and “removable prosthodontics.”
Both types offer unique benefits, but they each have different applications, advantages, and care requirements.
In this blog, we will walk you through each option in detail to help you understand the best solution for your dental needs.
ixed prosthodontics, such as crowns, bridges, and implant-retained dentures, offer permanent solutions for restoring or replacing teeth, providing long-term stability with minimal maintenance. Removable prosthodontics, like complete dentures, partial dentures, and implant-supported dentures, offer flexibility and convenience, allowing easy removal for cleaning and maintenance while still effectively replacing missing teeth.
What is Prosthodontics?
Prosthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on designing, manufacturing, and fitting dental prostheses—devices that replace missing or damaged teeth.
This branch of dentistry covers everything from single-tooth repairs to full-mouth restorations, helping you maintain the structure, appearance, and function of your smile.
Dental prostheses can restore everything from individual damaged teeth to completely edentulous (toothless) cases.
There are two main types of prosthodontics:
- Fixed prosthodontics – These are permanent solutions that are secured in your mouth, including crowns, bridges, and implant-retained dentures.
- Removable prosthodontics – These are removable devices, such as partial dentures and complete dentures, which can be taken out for cleaning and maintenance.
Fixed Prosthodontics: A Secure and Durable Choice
Fixed prosthodontics are designed to remain in place, offering a stable, natural-feeling replacement for your teeth.
- Description: A crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function.
- Common uses: Ideal for fractured teeth, worn teeth, or to protect teeth following endodontic therapy (root canal).
- Materials: Crowns can be made of various materials, including ceramic or zirconia that closely resemble natural teeth.
- Description: A bridge is used to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth, relying on abutment teeth on either side of the gap.
- Common uses: A missing tooth or teeth that are surrounded by healthy adjacent teeth.
- Materials: Bridges may be made from ceramic or metal frameworks, depending on your needs.
Implant-retained dentures
- Description: Unlike traditional dentures, these dentures are secured to dental implants, providing a firm foundation.
- Common uses: Recommended for patients seeking a permanent solution for multiple missing teeth, often for edentulous patients who want maximum stability.
- Description: Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, where they integrate with the bone to mimic a natural tooth root. Once the implant has fused with the bone, it creates a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or even a full arch of teeth.
- Common uses: Highly recommended if you have one or multiple missing teeth and are seeking a long-lasting, permanent solution. Implants provide the stability of a natural tooth and help prevent bone loss in the jaw, a common issue with missing teeth.
- Restorative options: After an implant is placed, it can support various fixed prostheses. Dr. Morris specializes in restoring implants with high-quality crowns and bridges, tailored to match the look and feel of your natural teeth.
Benefits of Fixed Prosthodontics
- Stability: These devices are secure and do not move around in your mouth.
- Natural feel: Fixed options mimic natural tooth structure, allowing you to speak and chew comfortably.
- Aesthetic considerations: Ceramic crowns and bridges blend with natural teeth for an appealing appearance.
- Long-lasting: With proper care, fixed prostheses can last many years, providing an effective solution for tooth loss.
Removable Prosthodontics: A Flexible Solution for Missing Teeth
Removable prosthodontics, as the name suggests, are dental appliances you can remove for cleaning.
Types of Removable Prosthodontics
Complete dentures (Traditional dentures)
- Description: Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower arch and are ideal for completely edentulous patients.
- Common uses: Suitable if you need a full set of false teeth, providing a complete replacement option.
- Materials: Typically crafted with denture teeth on a flesh-colored acrylic base.
Partial dentures
- Description: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They are designed for easy removal and reinsertion.
- Common uses: Ideal if you are missing a few teeth but still have some natural teeth to help support the denture.
- Materials: These dentures are built with a metal or acrylic framework that attaches to your remaining teeth.
- Description: These dentures attach to dental implants, offering a more stable fit while remaining removable.
- Common uses: A great option if you are looking for a secure fit but still want the flexibility to remove your denture.
Benefits of Removable Prosthodontics
- Flexibility: Removable options are easy to take out, making cleaning and adjustments simple.
- Cost-effective: Generally, removable prostheses are more affordable than fixed options.
- Gentle on natural teeth: Partial dentures distribute biting forces across a wider area, preserving remaining natural teeth.
- Convenient adjustments: Denture adjustments are possible if you experience gum tissue changes or need a better fit.
When to Consider Removable Prosthodontics
Removable dentures may be suitable if you:
- Want a flexible solution for missing teeth.
- Cannot afford fixed options and are looking for a more budget-friendly solution.
- Are looking for an option that requires less surgical intervention.
Trustworthy Prosthetics from Dr. Morris
Dr. Morris partners with a trusted dental lab that creates high-quality prosthetic devices tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
While Dr. Morris focuses on restoring function and aesthetics with dental crowns, bridges, and other fixed prosthetics, he ensures that each restoration fits well and feels natural.
Find the Perfect Prosthetic Solution for Your Smile – Book a Consultation Today!
Book a consultation with our prosthodontist, Dr. Gary Morris today! Whether you need a crown, bridge, denture, or dental implant repair, we are here to help you choose the right option for your needs.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, call us at (847) 215-1511 or complete the online inquiry form.We are located at 195 N Arlington Heights Rd Ste 160, Buffalo Grove, IL. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile!
